WHAT’ S NEWS IN NORWIN
NORWIN TEEN WINS NATIONAL KARATE TITLE
Thirteen-year-old River Pendergrass’ remarkable journey from near tragedy to triumph has inspired many. In November 2023, River was struck by an SUV on his way to Norwin Middle School, suffering a fractured skull, severe concussion and internal injuries. Doctors questioned whether he would fully recover— let alone return to karate, his greatest passion.
With unwavering determination, River endured months of therapy and slowly rebuilt his strength. Supported by family, friends and his coaches at Norwin Ninjas, he rejoined the dojo in 2024, first in a limited role and eventually as a competitor.
In June, less than two years after the accident, River captured the gold medal at the World Karate Commission National Championships in Detroit.
“ River is the embodiment of what martial arts is all about— overcoming adversity, showing respect, and never quitting,” said his coach, Sensei Bill Viola Jr.
Now a national champion, River is representing Team USA at the WKC World Championships at the end of October.
BIRD TOWN PENNSYLVANIA
Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania is expanding the Bird Town program into our region. The staff is working with municipalities to promote bird-friendly communities, enhance habitat with native plants, reduce threats to birds, and create a positive environmental impact.
Bird Town Pennsylvania is a welcoming, engaging, and inclusive program. Learn more at aswp. org.
NATIVE PLANTS AVAILABLE FROM AUDUBON
Why choose native plants? They’ re beautiful, low-maintenance, don’ t need fertilizer, require less water, and come back each year. Plus, they provide food and habitat for birds and butterflies.
Pick up native plants for your yard at Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve in Fox Chapel through the end of October any time the nature store is open, while supplies last. Learn more at aswp. org.
RED CROSS CALLS FOR VOLUNTEERS
The American Red Cross of Greater Pennsylvania issued an urgent call for volunteers as disaster response demands continue to grow.
With volunteers making up 90 % of its workforce, the organization is seeking help to respond to both local emergencies like home fires and largescale disasters such as hurricanes and wildfires.
Key opportunities include serving on Disaster Action Teams to support families after local emergencies, working in local shelters, or traveling nationwide to assist after major disasters.
For more details, visit redcross. org / volunteer or send email to gparecruitment @ redcross. org. n
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